MARE researchers honored at the International Manila and European Clams Conference

From September 8 to 10, the city of Arcachon, France, hosted the International Manila and European Clams Conference, an international meeting dedicated to the study and management of Asian and European clams. The conference was attended by MARE's Biological Invasions Research Group, represented by researchers Paula Chainho, Maria João Correia, Frederico Carvalho, and Thomas Goulding. 
 

During the event, MARE researchers presented several papers on the Japanese clam, an introduced species with growing ecological and socioeconomic importance in Portuguese aquatic ecosystems. The presentations addressed aspects such as fisheries management, population trends, and the genetics of the species.

The scientific value of the contributions was recognized with two awards:
• Best presentation for Maria João Correia
• Best Flash Talk for Paula Chainho

 

One of the most significant moments of the team's participation was the proposal to create a European Clam Network, with the aim of promoting knowledge sharing and fostering international collaboration in the sustainable management of Japanese clams and other species of common interest. The proposal was enthusiastically welcomed by representatives from several European countries, including the United Kingdom, Sweden, France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

This participation reinforces MARE's active role in applied research, international scientific cooperation, and the sustainable management of marine resources.

Thursday, 11 September 2025